What You Need to Do to Get a New Car Title
A new car title is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency — some states call it the Secretary of State or Registry of Motor Vehicles). You request it by submitting a form, paying a fee, and providing proof of ownership. The process takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on your state and whether you're replacing a lost title, transferring ownership, or correcting information on an existing one.
The specific form you fill out and the documents you need depend on why you need a new title. If your title is lost or damaged, the process is straightforward. If you're buying a used car and the seller hasn't given you the title yet, or if there's a lien on the vehicle, the steps are different. This guide covers the most common situations.
Key Takeaways
- You request a new title through your state's DMV by submitting the correct form, proof of ownership, and a fee that typically ranges from $10 to $50 depending on your state.
- If your title is lost or damaged, you'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), proof of identity, and proof of residency to request a replacement.
- If you're buying a used car, the seller must sign the title over to you; you then submit it to the DMV along with a bill of sale and proof of purchase.
- If the vehicle has a lien (the bank or lender owns it until you pay off the loan), the lender must release the lien before you can get a clean title in your name.
- Processing times vary by state but typically take one to four weeks; some states offer expedited service for an additional fee.
Replacing a Lost or Damaged Title
If your title is lost, stolen, or too damaged to read, contact your state's DMV and ask for the form to request a duplicate or replacement title. In most states, this form is called an "process for Duplicate Title" or "process for Replacement Title," though the exact name varies. You can usually read it from the DMV website or pick it up in person at a DMV office.
You'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN), which you can find on your vehicle registration, insurance card, or the driver's side dashboard. You'll also need proof of identity (a driver's license or state ID), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease agreement), and the replacement fee. Some states require you to sign the form in front of a notary public; others do not. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what's required before you go.
Mail the completed form and documents to your state DMV, or submit them in person at a local office. Processing typically takes one to three weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee if you need the title sooner.
Getting a Title When You Buy a Used Car
When you buy a used car from a private seller or a dealership, the seller must sign the title over to you. The title itself has a section labeled "Assignment of Title" or "Seller's Signature" where the previous owner signs and dates. The seller should also provide you with a bill of sale — a straightforward document showing the sale price, date, and both parties' names and signatures. If the seller doesn't have a bill of sale form, you can read one from your state's DMV website or create a straightforward one yourself.
Once you have the signed title and bill of sale, take both documents to your state's DMV along with proof of purchase (the bill of sale itself serves this purpose), proof of identity, and proof of residency. You'll also pay a title transfer fee, which varies by state but typically ranges from $15 to $50. The DMV will issue a new title in your name.
If you buy from a dealership, the dealer often handles this paperwork for you and submits it to the DMV on your behalf. Ask the dealer whether they will file the title transfer or whether you need to do it yourself. If you're responsible for it, the dealer should give you all the necessary documents before you leave the lot.
Handling a Title With a Lien
A lien means the bank, credit union, or other lender has a legal claim on the vehicle until you pay off the loan. The lender's name appears on the title as the "lienholder." You cannot get a clean title (one with no lien) until the lien is released.
When you pay off the loan, contact your lender and ask them to release the lien. They will send you a lien release document, which is usually a form they sign and date. Take this document to your state's DMV along with your current title, proof of identity, and the title fee. The DMV will issue a new title with the lien removed.
If you're buying a used car that still has a lien on it, do not complete the purchase until the seller's lender releases the lien. Some buyers and sellers arrange for the lender to release the lien at the moment of sale, often through an escrow service or at a bank. Never hand over money for a car without confirming that the lien will be released and that you will receive a clean title.
Correcting Information on Your Title
If your title has incorrect information — a misspelled name, wrong VIN, or wrong vehicle description — you can request a corrected title. Contact your state's DMV and ask for the form to correct title information. This form is often called an "process for Corrected Title" or "process for Title Correction."
You'll need to provide proof of the correct information. For a name correction, bring your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. For a VIN or vehicle description error, bring your vehicle registration or a letter from the vehicle manufacturer. Submit the form, supporting documents, proof of identity, and the correction fee to your DMV. Processing typically takes one to three weeks.
What Happens After You Submit Your Request
After you submit your title request to the DMV, you'll receive a confirmation number or receipt. Keep this for your records. The DMV will process your request and mail the new title to the address you provided. In most states, you'll receive the title within one to four weeks.
During this time, you can still drive the vehicle if you have a valid registration and proof of insurance. Some states issue a temporary title or receipt that you can use while waiting for the permanent title to arrive. If you need to sell or transfer the vehicle before the new title arrives, contact your DMV to find out whether you can use the receipt or confirmation number.
If you don't receive your title within the expected timeframe, contact your DMV with your confirmation number. Processing delays can happen, especially during busy periods or if documents are missing or incomplete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a title if I don't have the original title and the seller won't sign it over?
If the seller has lost the title and won't request a replacement, you have limited options. Some states allow you to request a title based on a bill of sale and proof of purchase alone, but this varies. Contact your state's DMV and explain the situation — they can tell you what documents they'll accept and whether you can proceed without the seller's signature.
How much does a new title cost?
Title fees vary by state and range from about $10 to $50. Some states charge different amounts for a replacement title versus a transfer. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, or call your local DMV office. Expedited processing, if available, usually costs an additional $10 to $25.
What if I bought a car from out of state?
You must transfer the title to your current state of residency. Take the out-of-state title, bill of sale, proof of purchase, proof of identity, and proof of residency to your state's DMV. You'll pay the title transfer fee and receive a new title issued by your state. Some states require an inspection or emissions test before they'll issue a title for an out-of-state vehicle.
Do I need a notary to get a new title?
Most states do not require a notary for a replacement title or transfer. However, some states require the seller's signature to be notarized when transferring ownership. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm whether you need a notary before you submit your paperwork.
What if the title has the wrong owner's name on it?
If the title is in someone else's name and you own the vehicle, you need a signed title transfer from that person. If that person is deceased, you'll need a death certificate and may need to go through probate or a simplified succession process depending on your state. Contact your state's DMV for guidance on your specific situation.